and all future despatches be numbered
regular
series
except such
as
are
marked either Secret or Confidential.
The object of the
despatches of a
routine character is uncertain whether the
Rule applies only to
those of a more important character
and political significance, such as render them likely to be called for by Parliament. It seems
so inconvenient
and cumbersome to include in the
series of numbered despatches those which merely acknowledge formally the receipt of despatches, circulars, printed documents, books, &c., that I doubt if Your Grace's intention was to apply the Rule to communications of that class. The point may perhaps have
been
inadvertently escaped notice, and, therefore, I have, though with some hesitation, directed till further instructions
are received that
no
change be made in the branding of that class of despatches.
I shall of
course not fail to avoid the title Separate to
any
despatches intended to be either "Confidential" or withheld from publication
for any
reason whatever.
I have the honour to be,
My Lord Duke,
Your Grace's most obedient
humble servant,
Ronald MacDonnell
Governor.